A lack of alignment between members of an Executive Team is a recipe for disaster. Confidence on the part of employees, customers, and stockholders is deeply rooted in the perception that the top tier of the organization can execute strategy efficiently and effectively.
An aligned senior team exists when the members act as caretakers and overseers of the organization as well as drivers of its success. Membership of the senior team is viewed as taking precedence over functional responsibilities and they are open and supportive of one another.
What does it look like when your top team are high performers?
- The incentive system rewards the team, not the individual.
- The members collaborate rather than compete.
- Top team members arrange all organizational resources to accomplish organizational goals.
- The team members develop a business strategy to deliver value which in turn creates financial results.
- The business strategy is clear, measurable and specifies the competitive advantage of the organization.
- The business strategy is clearly communicated to all employees.
- The team spends significant amounts of time together.
- Members have time to ask for help from each other, share learning and celebrate success.
- Non-team behavior is not tolerated.
An aligned Executive Team is the focal point of strategy execution. A CEO that can handle the bumps of effective team development will be rewarded with an effective team that is built at the same time that the work is getting done.
An interesting side note: Upon review and reflection, these defining points might just work for any team in your workplace!
Nationally recognized management development consultant, trainer, author and professional speaker Joni Daniels has helped thousands of people and teams become empowered about accomplishing their professional and personal goals. She is a sought after resource for Fortune 500 clients, professional organizations, higher education, and media outlets and business publications. Joni can be reached at http://jonidaniels.com
